These two countries are easily combined to create a fascinating trip full of culture, beautiful landscapes and ancient sites

Inspiration for Armenia

Armenia Holidays

Why we like Armenia

There is an old world charm to Armenia that is immediately inviting. Simple restaurants serve delicious food washed down by the surprisingly good local wine. The landscape is fresh and green, local produce such as honey, figs, apricots and nuts are always available to buy in the small villages and there are easy walks through sun-dappled wooded valleys. Even Mount Ararat makes you wonder if the Ark might really be up there.

What to expect on your Armenia holiday

Although Armenia once extended from the Black Sea to the Caspian, today it is confined to an area smaller than Belgium, lying sandwiched between Georgia, Azerbaijan, Iran and Turkey. Consequently many of its historical monuments now lie beyond its borders. However, as the first country in the world to formally adopt Christianity in 301AD, it is hardly surprising to find the landscape dotted with beautiful old churches and monasteries, many of which pre date the 10th century. Despite a glorious past and the renowned business acumen of its people, Armenia has struggled to find its economic feet in more recent times and, although there are a few good hotels, it remains relatively basic. That said, Armenia is very beautiful and the natural hospitality of the people make it a pleasure to visit.

Some ideas for an Armenia holiday

All holidays start in Yerevan where there is much to see and do. Don’t miss the choreographed singing fountains at night in the main square.

Take a walk through Debed Canyon and visit the UNESCO-protected monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin.

The Geghard Monastery has occupied its site since the fourth century, and the existing churches, all magnificently carved, date from the 13th century.

Journey to Goris, a town that has changed little since it was first planned by a 19th century German architect. There are also cave dwellings to explore nearby.

Visit the largest lake in the Caucasus, Lake Sevan, which is 43 miles long and much admired for its beautiful setting, pure waters and delicious fish.

Explore millennia-old monasteries in densely wooded mountain valleys.

Experience the dark, golden taste and aroma of ‘Ararat’, Armenia’s national brandy.

Beyond the ordinary

A private guided tour of Matenadaren, the world’s largest library of Armenian texts and ancient manuscripts, founded in 405 AD

Our Armenia expertise

A thorough knowledge of Armenia is essential for planning any holiday; however, its relatively small size means it lends itself to being combined with its immediate neighbours. Therefore whoever plans your Armenia holiday needs to understand the intricacies of the various border crossings that are available as well as having in-depth knowledge of the surrounding countries. Paul has travelled around this whole region many times and has this kind of in depth knowledge in abundance. He is our resident expert on border crossings and multi country itineraries — there's no one better placed to help you plan your perfect Armenian trip.